Ode 3. The Irmos.

Sterile and barren soul, procure fair fruit and blessed with children cry out: I have been established through you, O God; none is holy, none is just but you, O Lord.

Without conscience I have set aside God’s law and am about to be condemned, and I know not what to do; Most just Judge, take pity, save me in your compassion.

Lover of mankind, you are the Dayspring from the East, dawn for me, I pray, with the light of justice, rescuing me from the blackness of the passions and the darkness of punishments, O you of many mercies.

Of the Martyrs.

You have been revealed, O Martyrs, as inhabitants, fruitful trees of the spiritual Paradise, springs of divine water, mixing bowls who pour out holy drink.

The triumphant Martyrs with but a single thought in many bodies, wounded the myriad hosts of the hostile ruler of the world as they proclaimed the undivided Trinity.

Immaculate Virgin Mother, grant that we who repent and have recourse to Christ and wish to find release from faults may find him merciful, O sovereign Lady.

Of the Forerunner.

You became the voice of the Word, O Baptist; now direct the voices of those who honour you, and grant us forgiveness of faults by your mediation.

I have sinned against you, I have broken your law, I have dreadfully offended, O Saviour, and I have befouled my soul; and so I beg, through your Baptist, take pity on me.

As I wander in the desert of pleasures I beseech you, O Forerunner, offspring of the desert and guide of the new people, guide me to the way of repentance.

With Apostles, Prophets, Priests and Martyrs, O Immaculate, with the Powers above intercede with your Son to take pity on those who sing your praise.